Recognizing Nebraska’s emerging workforce talent and the employers, mentors, and apprenticeship programs that help them thrive.
The Nebraska Emerging Talent Awards (NETA) celebrate the individuals and organizations driving Nebraska’s workforce forward. Through six regional events across the state, NETA recognizes outstanding apprentices, interns, mentors, and employers who are building strong talent pipelines and creating meaningful career pathways. By highlighting these successes, NETA elevates the impact of internships and apprenticeships in strengthening communities, supporting businesses, and ensuring Nebraska’s long-term economic growth.
Regional Events
2026 METRO REGION WINNERS
Ramiro Domingo
Alex Pompa
Lozier Corporation
Monique Drown
Faviola Martinez-Perez
Koley Jessen
2026 SOUTHEAST REGION WINNERS
Eli Jacobsen
Barry Smith
Collins Aerospace
Natalie Trauernicht
Robin Poole, BS, RHIA, CHPS, CRCR
Olsson
Why NETA Matters
Nebraska is experiencing workforce shortages across key industries, creating an urgent need to grow and retain talent. The Nebraska Emerging Talent Awards (NETA) highlight the power of internships and apprenticeships in building strong, sustainable talent pipelines. Through these awards, we recognize the individuals and organizations who are actively strengthening Nebraska’s workforce and shaping its future.
Loss of
Population
69 of 93 of Nebraska counties saw population loss.
Net Loss of College Educated Talent
4,548 college educated talent leaving Nebraska.
Businesses Reporting Hiring Changes
82% of Nebraska employers reported hiring changes.
Top Industry
Shortages
Healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and tech are experiencing shortages
The Nebraska Emerging Talent Awards recognize individuals and organizations advancing Nebraska’s workforce through apprenticeships and internships.
The Nebraska Emerging Talent Awards address critical workforce shortages by celebrating innovative partnerships between employers, educators, and emerging talent. These awards elevate organizations investing in young professionals while showcasing impactful internship and apprenticeship pathways across the state. By increasing visibility of these programs, strengthening employer engagement, and supporting long-term talent retention, NETA helps shape Nebraska’s workforce future. Each regional event is co-hosted with Nebraska’s community colleges, reinforcing a strong, statewide commitment to developing and retaining talent.
Apprentice of the Year
Recognizes an outstanding apprentice demonstrating leadership, growth, and impact.
Apprenticeship Mentor
Honors an individual providing exceptional mentorship and guidance to apprentices.
Apprenticeship Organization
Recognizes an employer or organization leading successful apprenticeship programs.
Returning Intern
Celebrates an intern who has completed one or more internships with the same employer and continues to grow within the organization.
Internship Mentor
Honors a professional who provides exceptional mentorship to interns.
Internship Organization
Recognizes employers who demonstrate excellence in developing internship experiences.
OUR REGIONAL PARTNERS
OUR REGIONAL LEADS
Tammy J. Green
Haven Smith
Mason Zimmerer
Michelle Birkel
Seth Meranda
Jennifer Snyder
Katie Moser
Traci Skalberg
Catrina Gray
AKSARBEN LEADS
Shonna Dorsey
Nate Wohlenhaus
